Treasures to discover this summer at the library

Friday

Jun 28, 2013 at 12:01 AM

Your local library is a house of endless treasures, brimming with all manner of things to feed the mind. With summer vacation in full swing, it's the perfect place to go and stock a child's mind with books on all sorts of subjects. Many libraries have active summer reading programs, providing loads of fun things for kids to do over the summer.

Your local library is a house of endless treasures, brimming with all manner of things to feed the mind. With summer vacation in full swing, it's the perfect place to go and stock a child's mind with books on all sorts of subjects. Many libraries have active summer reading programs, providing loads of fun things for kids to do over the summer.

Years ago I interviewed award-winning author Gary Paulsen, and he told me that when he was a child, his local librarian and the books she gave to him to read literally saved his life. Apparently Roman philosopher Cicero (106 BC — 43 BC) felt the same way when he wrote, "A room without books is a body without a soul."

On the Big Island of Hawaii in 1975, 11 Boy Scouts and their leaders are camping on a remote beach below the island's ancient volcano. It begins as an exciting adventure for Dylan and his fellow Scouts as they make the long trek across and down the ancient lava flow to the secluded beach below, but trouble is about to explode around everyone.

Dylan senses something isn't right, and is particularly spooked by the sound of wild dogs howling at night. Shortly thereafter, terror strikes and no one is spared the horror. Over the next several hours, the small group of people is tested to their limits and discovers the real meaning of leadership, friendship and the human will to survive.

Based on the true events that occurred in 1975, this extraordinary, well-written story will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Ruby loves to play games with her dog, Rory, and with her mom. But ever since Ruby's baby brother, Oliver, was born, Mom always seems to be busy taking care of him, and that means less time for her to play with Ruby. Ruby decides she wants Oliver to disappear forever, and thinks of several (very funny) ways she might be able to make that happen. But after a thrilling imaginary space adventure with Mom, Rory the dog, and Oliver, Ruby has a change of heart about Oliver.

Charming in every way, this fun, loving story is perfect for older siblings who might be adjusting to sharing Mom's love and attention.

Nationally syndicated, Kendal Rautzhan writes and lectures on children's literature. She can be reached at greatestbooksforkids.com.